A major in Classical Studies equips its students with the knowledge, skills, intellectual agility, and different points of view to pursue a variety of careers, whether the student’s next step is entry into the workforce or further education in professional or graduate school. Faculty advisers work with students to develop a program of study within their major and to articulate the connections between their education and career goals and aspirations.

Learning Goals for All Majors

Every major in Classical Studies asks students to:

explore the many facets of the ancient world—its history, societal and cultural practices, and intellectual endeavors (e.g., law, religion, political theory and practice, art and material objects, language and literature, philosophy, science)

recognize and interpret the complexities of the ancient world, including such problematic aspects as slavery, gender inequality, and various types of bias

understand different critical perspectives

ask questions and engage in critical thinking, especially analysis and synthesis of information, ideas, and situations to solve complex problems

work with a variety of primary sources, both textual (in the original language or translation) and material (aided by the resources of the Kelsey Museum and the papyrology collection)

make inferences from the fragmentary and incomplete record of the past

conduct research using primary and secondary sources, including both traditional and digital media

The Classical Studies Department encourages its students to participate in the wide array of events and activities in which faculty and graduate students are involved, including UROP projects, student clubs, lectures, brown bag presentations, and reading groups. Students are also encouraged to study abroad.

Because many Classical Studies courses are small, majors have opportunities to work closely with their professors and professors get to know their students well.